TEL AVIV, November 11. /Dunyo IA/. The first session of Israel’s 26th Knesset was held, during which lawmakers elected in the October 27 parliamentary elections were sworn in, reports Dunyo IA correspondent, citing “Interfax” IA.

During the ceremony, Israeli President Isaac Herzog urged lawmakers to avoid another round of elections and focus on ensuring security and stability in the country. “The people who chose you long for routine, security, and tranquillity,” he said.

The new parliament comprises 120 lawmakers representing 11 parties. Following the elections, the coalition led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secured 53 seats, the opposition bloc won 48, and Arab parties obtained 19 seats.

Meanwhile, 67 lawmakers backed opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot for the position of prime minister. President Herzog tasked him with forming a new government, although Gadi Eisenkot described the challenge as “extremely difficult.”

He has 28 days, until December 6, to form a governing coalition, with the possibility of requesting an additional two-week extension. Until negotiations are completed and a new cabinet is formed, Benjamin Netanyahu’s government will remain in office.

Party leaders also approved lawmaker Matan Kahana, representing the “New Right” and “Yamina” parties, as their candidate for Speaker of the Knesset. The position was previously held by “Likud” party member Amir Ohana.

Photo credit: Reuters